The New & Improved Armando Al Pantheon

Since opening its doors on Salita dei Crescenzi in central Rome in 1961, Armando al Pantheon has undergone some changes: new framed sketches were added to the cork-clad wall ; air conditioning was installed; the menu even yielded to accommodated chef Claudio Gargioli’s creative flare. But this August, Rome’s famous institution underwent its most dramatic transformation yet.

The space was redesigned by famed American-born-Rome-dwelling architect Anton Cristell. Collaborating with the Gargioli family to preserve the restaurant’s familial vibe while imposing a more practical layout, Cristell has managed to seamlessly bridge modernity and history.

Light flows in from outside through recessed windows accented by the original fixtures, while the kitchen itself offers an additional light source framed by geometric glass panes.

The dropped ceiling was torn away, revealing original wooden beams that support the (now functional!) air conditioning vent.

The result is a larger, brighter, more comfortable space in which to feast on spaghetti alla gricia, coratella, torta antica Roma and all the house classics.

Goodbye, old cork board wall and antipasto buffet. You will be missed, but not for long.

10 Comments

I always thought of Armando as one of those places that never, ever changed–rather like Sostanza in Florence–but the lighting looks lovely and functional air conditioning can be a lifesaver in the summer. We didn’t make it there on our last trip but will check it out next time.

Looks great! One of my favorites in Rome because of the food and location combined. Let’s hope the redecoration doesn’t come with a decline in quality and atmosphere!

A question to Katie: A few years back I went to a place called Hostaria Romana (near the Qurinal Palace) and a place called La Taverna dei Fori Imperali – both were nice. Have you been there lately and if so how is the food? I’m going to Rome next month, but have only two nights to eat on my own and I’m staying in via Nazionale(I will go to Cesare al Casaletto of course!).

We will be visiting Rome, our first time to celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary. We will be staying at near the Vatican for 7 days, also visiting Assisi. I have read Rick Steve’s book, but he recommend your site since we are foodies. We love great food, but know it doesn’t always have to be the pricey. What places would you recommend?

Hi Carole, thanks for reaching out! You have excellent taste in celebratory destinations. I have lots of recommendations summarized on my apps! You can download them (depending on your smart phone software) here: http://www.parlafood.com/rome-for-foodies/

I am sorry to say that in miss the old Armando’s . I miss the old world feel & charm. First introduced to cacio pepe here a decade ago, the one we had on this trip lacked the creaminess of the original… Sorry, just a little too trendy now

The changes look nice! I will miss the antipasti buffet, though. It was always yummy to look at. The insides may change, but I’m sure that the staff and the food will stay as good as always. It gives me another reason to stop by again on my next visit to Rome. And, I will get the cacao e pepe this time – I won’t let the Thursday night gnocchi distract me 🙂